U-shuck oysters pop up in Greenport

The North Fork is Long Islands U-pick capital; now it boasts the Islands first U-shuck. At Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market, you are supplied with a kit containing a few oyster knives and a knife-proof glove and offered instruction in the art of shucking oysters. People are coming in with a range of experience, said owner Ian Wile. Some people take the kit and say leave me alone. Others say I am terrified of cutting myself, please help me!

The week-old venue is under the auspices of Wile's Little Creek Oyster Farm, which is raising oysters in Hog Neck Bay in Southold. Wile sells to restaurants and markets but was looking for a way to introduce his oysters directly to the public. The market also carries oysters from other small, local producers as well as local condiments (Holy Schmitt's Homemade Horseradish), soft drinks (Miss Lady Root Beer) and snacks (North Fork Potato Chips). All oysters are $1.25 apiece, $15 for a bucket of 12.

Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market is located on the Greenport waterfront between Mitchell Park and Claudios. (Set your GPS to 37 Front St. then take Bootleg Alley toward the water, and youll be within striking distance.) Hours are Thursday to Monday 2 to 9 p.m. but may vary according to customer demand and oyster supply.